Surf’s down in city

November 7, 2012

I was surprised and disappointed by reports in the police log (Mining Journal, Oct. 31).

There were four separate reports dealing with outlawing surfing in Marquette. I had thought Marquette was more enlightened. I know an ordinance was passed some time ago but was not enforced. Over the past year we enjoyed the surf and even had nice chats with law enforcement officials before and after surf sessions.

I was pleased by the enlightened action of placing life saving aids along the shore. I also like the idea of flags to notify persons of dangerous conditions. Of course, good surfing will always take place in conditions determined "dangerous" by some.

It is important to note, surfing is never very dangerous here. At best we are talking about surf that is barely over head high. In addition, there is minimal power when compared with ocean swells of the same size.

It is also important to note, rip currents have little effect on surfers because they are on a board rather than down in the current. Surfers are typically strong swimmers and know their limits.

All surfers wish it was bigger and potentially, more dangerous. Life has dangers. I don't want to live in a world where a nannie state tries to make everything risk free.

I have surfed these waters since the early 1970s and don't plan to stop now. If I am in the surf and some authority figure tries to have me removed, they will have to wait until I am done surfing.